Several dozen families were reunited during a special event at MetLife Stadium on Thursday, meeting in person for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic began.

About 36 families met on the field at the stadium for the event.

“My mom is getting older. Every moment you get to see her it’s going to be precious,” says Lisa Spinosa, of Florida. “It was more emotional than we thought.”

Spinosa and Lisa Mercado – originally from New Jersey and Long Island – were two of 35 fully vaccinated people who were flown to New Jersey from South Florida. The families had only seen each other via video conferencing since the pandemic began. Some family members were even meeting for the first time.

“It’s amazing. Unbelievable to finally see my support system and my family,” says Adrienne Zdaniewski, of Brooklyn.

The mass reunion was dubbed “A Day of Families” by its hosts. It included lunch, entertainment, photos and a special appearance by actor Neil Patrick Harris.

The event was possible through a partnership with CLEAR, Marriot and United. The event, hotel stay and flights were all free.